Barn Conversions are becoming an increasingly popular type of property, not only do they obtain character and style from the previous property, but they also have modern features, which you tend to see in contemporary builds. We see a barn conversion as a property which offers the ‘best of both worlds’, and it can surprise and shock your guests.

It must be said that barn conversions are not cheap or easy to build; some may require relocating rooms, perhaps knocking walls through and building new ones. Timber beamed structure may need to be changed, and it can sometimes seem like your building a new property. Barn conversions are supposed to maintain original features, and if that’s not possible it is best to replace them with materials that are as close to the original as you can get.

If a barn is in such poor condition that it does not hold many original features, it may occasionally be better to start fresh with a new build. To find about your options make sure you speak to a barn conversion specialist, preferably one who is located to your area.

This property had to be restored with traditional lime plaster throughout the ground floor.  The owner took the opportunity to relocate the kitchen to greatly improve the use of space.  As you can see the transformation was very impressive.

Flood damage can be one of the worst types of property damage, yet it is also one of the most common problems, either for accidental problems or natural. A good flood repair contractor or tradesman will work to make sure additional work is carried out to prevent secondary flood damage. With floods, there will likely be different colours of water, whether it’s clean, grey or even black. These can cause nasty stains and it’s vital to make sure all types of water are fully removed.

In some cases there may even be sewage, and each and every object that has been affected must be removed from the property. Once removed, there can be the second stage, which involves cleaning and sanitising. A good contractor will also be able to dispose of any materials and have a safe place for storing damaged items.

Once cleaning is complete and any damaged areas of structure are removed and replaced, carpeting, plastering and painting can be the next steps. Then your house will begin to look like it did before, perhaps even better.

Flood damage can be a nightmare, especially if it is deep rooted; consequently damaging the structure of the property, meaning professional help is needed. If you think you may need structural repairs because of a flood, it is important to get it looked at as soon as possible.

Today the term ‘structural repairs’ doesn’t always mean spending a lot of money. There can be extremely cost effective solutions which solve your structural repair issues, but this will depend on the property itself, occasionally it can work in your favour if your property is a new build. Specialised flood damage contractors can make sure you problems are not only fixed, but they are built to prevent any further flood damage. Timber beams can be some of the most expensive to repair, so it is important to make sure your spending money correctly, with an individual who has relevant experience.

The main culprit for damaging timber is wet rot or dry rot, but specialist can make sure your issues, either by replacing the beams or even strengthening them.

Health and safety is essential, and it is your duty to employ a contractor who is trained in health and safety before they start working on your property. Health and safety is not just for the individual working on the property, it’s to make sure you’re safe, and the general public is safe.

Good contractors will regularly take health and safety training, and if they refuse to show you their health and safety certificates, it is better to avoid them. Health and safety also applies to legislation, because it’s vital to keep up to date with any current practise regulations and rules.

If you contractor refuses to talk about health and safety or you cannot find any information about their training, qualifications on their website or in their mission statement, then again it is better that they were avoided. Make sure you choose a contractor who solves your issues rather than causing more headaches by asking them about health and safety.